Green Fingers
Solo S. Series
What’s inside...
Green Fingers by Emily Rodda is a charming tale that revolves around the life of a young girl named Katie, who discovers she has a magical ability to make plants grow with an extraordinary speed and vitality. As Katie navigates the challenges of her newfound power, she learns valuable lessons about responsibility, the importance of nature, and the impact one person can have on their community. Throughout the story, Katie encounters various characters who help her understand the significance of her gift, while she also must keep it a secret from those who might exploit it. The book combines elements of fantasy with real-life issues, creating an engaging narrative that encourages readers to appreciate the environment and recognize the potential within themselves.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
51 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the main character solved problems using their green fingers?
How did the garden change throughout the story, and what do you think these changes represent?
What would you grow in your magical garden and why?
How did the friends in the story help each other, and what can we learn from their teamwork?
If you had a special power like the main character, how would you use it to help others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use descriptive praises for the child's thoughts and ideas to encourage deeper thinking.
Relate the themes of the book to the child’s everyday life to make the discussion more relevant.
Ask the child to draw their version of a magical garden, incorporating elements from the story to foster creativity.
Create a comfortable and distraction-free environment to keep the child focused and engaged during the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Green Fingers,' children are introduced to the character of Sam who takes care of a garden. The story follows his dedicated efforts to nurture the plants.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn the importance of being responsible by taking care of their own plants or helping with chores at home, understanding that their actions have a direct impact on the well-being of other living things.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: As Sam watches his plants grow, children learn alongside him that some results aren't immediate and that patience is a crucial part of achieving a worthwhile goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be patient in real life situations, whether it is waiting for their turn in a game or for a special event.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The book encourages children to be creative, as Sam thinks of different ways to make his garden beautiful.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to engage in creative activities, such as drawing, building, or decorating, and appreciate the joy of creating something unique.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of nature
Explanation: Through Sam’s interaction with his garden, 'Green Fingers' instills a love and appreciation for the outdoors and the environment.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to spend more time outdoors, exploring and learning about the natural world around them.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: When Sam faces challenges like pests in the garden, he figures out solutions to protect his plants.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to approach problems creatively and not give up easily, applying this mindset to schoolwork or personal challenges.